Ralph Lauren returned to the world of personal fashion Tuesday with the brand’s first catwalk show since 2019. Lauren, held at New York’s Museum of Modern Art, transformed a gallery into an intimate living room, replacing rows of seats with cozy coffee tables and crisp white benches. The atmosphere was less the big brand experience than being privy to something personal and special.
America still has some way to go to catch up with Europe’s luxury sector and rival the craftsmanship of Hermes, Louis Vuitton and Chanel, but Ralph Lauren is easily the epitome of American luxury and sophisticated fashion.
The history of polo has given Ralph Lauren an unmatched brand identity and global reach, and for all its factory outlets and discount logo shirts, dilution of brand equity hasn’t tarnished its top line or its affluent customer base.
The 61-look show featured both menswear and womenswear, opened by Gigi Hadid in a preppy RL logo V-neck, button-down and two-tone classic shoes. The blazer was a staple of the collection, coming in single and double-breasted styles, a variety of checks and stripes, but also equestrian-inspired for dressy evenings. The tuxedo jacket is a staple of Ralph Lauren, as is the sensual wool.
The collection played largely on a black and white palette, Lauren’s vision of elegance and nostalgia culminating in a season for the well-dressed discerning who prefer timeless fashion to fads.
Guests sat on furniture found in the decor of Lauren’s 5th Avenue apartment, such as the Art Deco steel chairs, white sofa chairs, and black-and-white photographs that adorn the walls of his homes and businesses.
Lasting style
Ralph Lauren’s enduring appeal, now 82 and in business for six decades, lies in his in-depth knowledge of his client base and never straying from his signature style.
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